I am closing off the fireplace and putting in a Vermont Castings stove. Chimney is in good shape, apprently not used much since house was built in 1988. One vendor told me that I would need metalbestos to the tune of $1,000 or so. I realize the need for a liner, but wonder if metabestos is required. Any comments welcome. HTO

The new stove MUST be directly connected to the chimney that is dedicated to it. This is code. The chimney must be rayed for no less that 2100 degrees as per UL listing standard.

You can not just set the stove into the fireplace and use the fireplace chimney to vent. IT must be directly connected to whatever chimney you choose.